28 Facts About MGM Cartoons

The Golden Age of MGM Cartoons

MGM Cartoons, produced by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, are iconic in the world of animation. These cartoons have entertained generations with their humor, creativity, and memorable characters. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about these timeless classics.

1. MGM's animation studio was founded in 1937. The studio was established to compete with Disney and Warner Bros. in the animation industry.

2. The first MGM cartoon was "The Discontented Canary". Released in 1934, it was part of the Happy Harmonies series.

3. "Tom and Jerry" debuted in 1940. Created by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera, this cat-and-mouse duo became one of the most beloved cartoon pairs in history.

4. MGM won seven Academy Awards for "Tom and Jerry". The series received more Oscars than any other animated series.

5. Tex Avery joined MGM in 1942. Known for his work at Warner Bros., Avery brought a new level of humor and innovation to MGM cartoons.

Iconic Characters and Series

MGM Cartoons introduced a host of unforgettable characters and series that left a lasting impact on popular culture.

6. Droopy was created by Tex Avery. This slow-talking, droopy-eyed dog first appeared in "Dumb-Hounded" in 1943.

7. Barney Bear was one of MGM's earliest characters. Created by Rudolf Ising, Barney Bear made his debut in 1939.

8. Screwy Squirrel was another Tex Avery creation. Known for his zany antics, Screwy Squirrel first appeared in 1944.

9. The "Happy Harmonies" series ran from 1934 to 1938. These cartoons were known for their vibrant color and musical themes.

10. "The Cat Concerto" is one of the most famous Tom and Jerry shorts. Released in 1947, it won an Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film.

Innovations and Techniques

MGM Cartoons were known for their technical innovations and unique animation techniques that set them apart from their competitors.

11. MGM used Technicolor in their cartoons. This advanced color process made their animations more vibrant and visually appealing.

12. The studio experimented with different animation styles. From realistic to highly exaggerated, MGM's versatility was unmatched.

13. MGM was one of the first studios to use synchronized sound. This technique enhanced the comedic timing and overall impact of their cartoons.

14. The use of rotoscoping in MGM cartoons. This technique involved tracing over live-action footage to create realistic movement in animation.

15. MGM's cartoons often featured elaborate musical scores. These scores were composed by some of the best musicians of the time, adding depth to the animations.

Legacy and Influence

The impact of MGM Cartoons extends beyond their original run, influencing generations of animators and entertaining audiences worldwide.

16. Hanna-Barbera went on to create their own successful studio. After leaving MGM, William Hanna and Joseph Barbera founded Hanna-Barbera Productions, creating hits like "The Flintstones" and "Scooby-Doo".

17. Tex Avery's influence can be seen in modern animation. His innovative techniques and comedic style have inspired countless animators.

18. MGM Cartoons have been referenced in numerous films and TV shows. Their iconic characters and scenes are often parodied and paid homage to.

19. The "Tom and Jerry" series has been rebooted multiple times. New versions of the classic duo continue to entertain new generations.

20. MGM's animation studio closed in 1957. Despite its closure, the legacy of MGM Cartoons lives on through their timeless characters and stories.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Here are some lesser-known tidbits and trivia about MGM Cartoons that might surprise you.

21. Tom and Jerry were originally named Jasper and Jinx. The names were changed after the first short, "Puss Gets the Boot".

22. Droopy's voice was inspired by Bill Thompson. Thompson was a radio actor known for his slow, drawling voice.

23. Tex Avery's "Red Hot Riding Hood" was a parody of the classic fairy tale. This 1943 cartoon became one of Avery's most famous works.

24. MGM produced a series of "Barney Bear" comic books. These comics were published in the 1940s and 1950s.

25. The "Tom and Jerry" short "The Two Mouseketeers" won an Academy Award. Released in 1952, it was one of the most popular entries in the series.

26. MGM's cartoons often featured celebrity caricatures. Stars like Clark Gable and Greta Garbo made animated appearances.

27. The studio's mascot, Leo the Lion, appeared in some cartoons. Leo roared at the beginning of many MGM films, including their animated shorts.

28. MGM's cartoons have been restored and re-released on DVD and Blu-ray. These collections allow new audiences to enjoy the classic animations in high quality.

Final Thoughts on MGM Cartoons

MGM cartoons have left an indelible mark on animation history. From the antics of Tom and Jerry to the clever humor of Droopy, these characters have entertained generations. The studio's commitment to quality and innovation set a high bar in the industry. Animators like Tex Avery and William Hanna brought unique styles that still influence modern cartoons.

MGM's legacy isn't just about laughs; it's a testament to creativity and storytelling. These cartoons remain timeless, continuing to captivate new audiences. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to these classics, there's always something fresh to discover.

So next time you watch an MGM cartoon, remember the artistry and effort behind each frame. It's more than just animation; it's a piece of history that continues to inspire and entertain.